Figure 8 Flake Details
Uses: Flaking a rope is to arrange it on the deck ready for easy use. The Figure 8 Flake (ABOK # 3110, p 517) allows the rope to be pulled rapidly off the deck with minimal risk of kinking, twisting, or knotting.
Applications: It can be used: to lay out the furling line for a roller jib prior to unfurling the jib; to prepare an anchor rope before dropping the anchor; or to ready a dock line in preparation for passing the end ashore. It is also the best way to store a hose on the ground.
Technique: The Figure 8 Flake is often used when a rope has been coiled and there is doubt about it running out freely - for example if the coil has been made with all the turns in the same direction. Two complete passes of the rope are usually necessary. First start at the attached end and work along the length of the rope to the free end, carefully shaking out all of the twists. Then start at the free end and lay out the rope in the Figure 8 Flake.
Variations: For a long line in a confined area, a second layer of figure 8's can be laid at right angles to the first. Care is required to avoid catching turns of the first layer.
